Summer heat can transform laundry routines. Higher temperatures, longer daylight hours, and increased outdoor activities make clothing washing and care a little more complicated. From battling sweat stains to harnessing the sun for drying, experts share essential insights for keeping fabrics fresh, vibrant, and clean all season long. Discover how to adapt your laundry habits to the unique challenges—and opportunities—of summertime.
Warmer temperatures lead to increased perspiration, causing clothing to absorb more moisture and body oils. To combat lingering odors, experts recommend selecting detergents with odor-fighting properties and washing activewear promptly after use. For more summer laundry tips, visit goodhousekeeping.com.
Hot water can accelerate dye breakdown, especially in bright summer clothing. Experts recommend washing garments in cold water to preserve color and prevent shrinkage, while also saving energy. The following guide to laundry temperature explains more: wash.com.
Warm weather brings an increase in outdoor activities, leading to stains from sunscreen, grass, and picnics that can set quickly. To effectively remove these stains:
Act Promptly: Address stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting.
Pre-Treat Stains: Apply a stain remover or liquid detergent directly to the affected area and let it soak in.
Launder Appropriately: Wash the garment according to the fabric care instructions, using the warmest water safe for the material.
Repeat if Necessary: If the stain persists, repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps before drying.
For more detailed guidance on handling tough summer stains, refer to clktrethetking.com.
Line drying in direct sunlight not only saves energy but also naturally sanitizes clothing, killing many bacteria and viruses. However, prolonged UV exposure can fade some fabrics, so turn darks inside out. More on sun-drying’s benefits at thespruce.com.
With extra summer laundry loads, it’s tempting to fill the washer to capacity. However, overloading leads to improper cleaning and can damage the machine. Wash smaller loads for superior results. Review energystar and their guide on avoiding this critical issue.
Wet towels and swimsuits in closed hampers can quickly turn musty or mildewy in heat. Choose ventilated laundry baskets or leave lids off to promote airflow until you wash them. For more information on preventing mold and mildew in your home, visit mayoclinic.org.
During warm, humid nights, sweat and allergens can accumulate on sheets and pillowcases. Dermatologists suggest laundering bedding at least once a week during summer to maintain cleanliness and comfort. For more information on how often to wash your sheets, refer to healthline.com.
Using a dryer in the heat can over-dry fabrics, making them stiff or damaged. Opt for lower heat settings or an air cycle, especially with synthetics and delicate items. The ‘Air Fluff’ setting, also known as ‘No Heat’ or ‘Air Dry,’ tumbles clothes with room-temperature air, gently removing lint and fluff, ideal for delicate fabrics and items that can’t withstand heat. For safe drying temperatures, see nytimes.com
Mesh laundry bags protect swimwear and delicate summer items from stretching or tangling in the wash. Always check the garment’s care label for specific instructions. For more information on laundering delicates, refer to cleaninginstitute.org.
Moist, hot conditions during summer can promote mold in washers and lint buildup in dryers. To maintain optimal performance and prevent odors:
Washing Machine:
Lint Trap: Empty the lint trap after every use to prevent fire hazards and ensure efficient drying.
Dryer Duct: Clean the dryer duct at least once a year to remove lint buildup and reduce fire risk.
For more detailed guidance on cleaning your laundry appliances, refer to cdc.gov.
Leaving damp laundry in the washer—even for a few hours—can cause bacteria growth and sour smells in warm weather. Remove loads as soon as the cycle ends and dry immediately. Learn why speed matters at rd.com.
During summer, heavy rains or seasonal changes often result in softer municipal water, which can affect your laundry routine. Soft water allows detergents to work more efficiently, so it’s advisable to reduce the amount of detergent you use to prevent residue buildup on clothes and in the washing machine. Generally, when washing in soft water, you can use about half the recommended amount of detergent compared to hard water (homesteady.com). For a more precise adjustment, consider using a water hardness to detergent dose calculator, which factors in water hardness, load size, soil level, and detergent type to recommend the optimal detergent amount. By adjusting your detergent usage according to water hardness, you can achieve cleaner laundry while extending the lifespan of your washing machine.
If allergies or hay fever are a concern, washing sheets, clothes, and pillowcases in hot water (if the fabric allows) can be beneficial. This practice helps eliminate dust mites and reduces pollen buildup. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation recommends washing at temperatures of 130°F (54.4°C) or higher to effectively kill dust mites and remove allergens. For more information, visit their guidelines at aafa.org.
Frequent outfit changes during summer often result in lightly worn items that don’t require a full wash. Many modern washers offer quick wash or express settings, allowing you to clean small loads efficiently, saving time, water, and energy. For instance, Whirlpool’s Quick Wash cycle can clean regular-sized loads in as little as 25 minutes ( whirlpool.com).
For a visual demonstration of the Quick Wash cycle, you can watch this video: Learn More about the Quick Wash Cycle Option in Select Whirlpool® Washers
Before packing away bulky winter wear, it’s essential to launder and dry items thoroughly to prevent mold or pests during humid months. Use sealed containers and add cedar balls for extra protection. For more detailed advice on safe storage, refer consumerreports.org.